More actions
The following is a general overview. Please consult training documents and SWPs for more specific information as there is a lot that can go wrong with the CNC equipment.
Safety
- Fire: always use appropriate feeds and speeds, use appropriate tools for the job, always watch the CNC so you can respond quickly
- Dust (wear min. N95)
- Noise - wear hearing protection. Note that it can be hard to tell if the tool has stopped when you're wearing hearing protection.
- Projectiles: tools and workpieces can shatter. Use appropriate feeds and speeds, make sure the tool and spindle won't crash into the workpiece, fixtures/clamps. Clean the tool holder with compressed air so the tool doesn't slip.
- Do not operate the CNC machinery unattended.
Housekeeping
- The CNC equipment generates lots of dust. Please clean the floor and equipment thoroughly
- Fire code prohibits storing wood stock in the CNC room (fixtures and spoilboards are OK). Store fixtures and spoilboards on the red cart - make sure it is labelled with your name and phone number or it may be thrown out.
- Overfilled dust collectors can cause fires. Empty the Cyclone dust collector after every job. Empty the main dust collector when the dust is halfway up the viewing window (around 1 garbage bag worth).
- Turn off the vacuum and dust collector when you're done.
- Turn off the room exhaust if you are the last one in the room.
Workholding
- Do not glue, nail or screw into the main spoilboard.
- Don't cut more than 1/16" into the main spoilboard - do a small test piece with a secondary spoilboard if required.
- Rule of thumb: Add 0.01" to your depth of cut when cutting all the way through - this should go through the material while minimally cutting into the spoilboard
- Always measure your stock with calipers (don't rely on nominal thickness or tape measures)
- Vacuum system may not work with pieces smaller than 24" x 48"